On the recordSeptember 23, 2021
As the House continues to consider the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act, I wanted to take this opportunity to highlight the Parris Island Protection Act. This critical bill will preserve Parris Island Marine Corps Recruiting Depot for decades to come. Parris Island is responsible for training over a million brave marines, including every enlisted female marine that has ever served in our Marine Corps. Not only is Parris Island critical to our national defense, but it is also an integral part of the Lowcountry community. It is responsible for the creation of over 6,000 jobs and generates almost $800 million in economic activity every year. Sadly, this Congress' version of NDAA is one of the first authorizations not to include any protections against base realignment and closures. I was disappointed to see that absent these usual protections, my amendment to protect Parris Island was not made in order this week as we went through amendments for the NDAA. I look forward to working with the House Committee on Armed Services to ensure Parris Island remains open, functional, and continues to contribute to the best and brightest in our national defense. Clean Energy Week
